Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
The largest and most magnificent of the surviving Khajuraho temples, covered in 800+ exquisitely carved figures.
Photos of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Shiva
- Established
- Approx. 1030 CE
- Architecture
- Nagara-Chandela
- Address
- Khajuraho Group of Monuments, MP 471606
- Timings
- Sunrise to sunset
History of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Built by Chandela king Vidyadhara. Part of the UNESCO Khajuraho Group of Monuments.
Festivals Celebrated at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
- Maha Shivaratri
- Khajuraho Dance Festival
How to Reach Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Khajuraho has an airport with flights from Delhi and Varanasi. Well connected by rail to Jhansi and Satna.
Frequently Asked Questions about Kandariya Mahadeva Temple
Where is Kandariya Mahadeva Temple located?
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is located at Khajuraho Group of Monuments, MP 471606, in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- The presiding deity at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is Shiva (also known as Mahadev, Bholenath), worshipped in the Shaiva tradition.
What are the timings of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is generally open Sunrise to sunset. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Kandariya Mahadeva Temple built?
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple was established Approx. 1030 CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is built in the Nagara-Chandela style, characteristic of Shiva shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple include Maha Shivaratri, Khajuraho Dance Festival. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Madhya Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- Khajuraho has an airport with flights from Delhi and Varanasi. Well connected by rail to Jhansi and Satna.
Why is Kandariya Mahadeva Temple significant?
- The largest and most magnificent of the surviving Khajuraho temples, covered in 800+ exquisitely carved figures.
Is there an entry fee at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Kandariya Mahadeva Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Kandariya Mahadeva Temple?
- Kandariya Mahadeva Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Madhya Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.